South Africa: A Mother to Many: Sbo Ngcobo’s Journey of Hope

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"I do not worry about what they will eat or wear; as long as they are safe and away from abuse, that fulfils me." – Sbo Ngcobo

In the quiet village of Emsahweni, KwaZulu-Natal, lives a woman whose heart beats for the most vulnerable. Sbo Ngcobo, a mother, caregiver, and advocate, has dedicated her life to protecting children who have been abused, neglected, and abandoned. Her story is one of resilience, compassion, and unwavering commitment to justice.

Sbo’s journey began with a single mission: to support children who had survived rape. She offered counselling and court support, ensuring that these young souls were not alone in their darkest moments. Over time, her work expanded beyond her immediate community, reaching children across the province who needed safety and care.

Today, Sbo’s home is a sanctuary. Ten children currently live under her roof, placed there by SAPS and other organisations. Some have stayed until they completed tertiary education, leaving only when they were ready to live independently. For Sbo, this is not just a responsibility, it is a calling. “I do not worry about what they will eat or wear; as long as they are safe and away from abuse, that fulfils me,” she says.

Challenges and Triumphs

The road has not been easy. Many of the children arrive without proof of identity, and Sbo often uses her own finances to resolve these issues. Despite these challenges, her determination never wavers. Support from local churches, registered organisations, and even a group from Canada has helped ease the burden. These sponsors ensure that the children’s basic needs are met, allowing Sbo to focus on their emotional and psychological well-being.

Her efforts have not gone unnoticed. Community members nominated her for an award from the Amanzimtoti Trauma Unit, recognising her as a beacon of hope whose work has transformed countless lives.

Family and Community Support

Behind Sbo stands a strong support system. Her mother works closely with her, stepping in when Sbo is unavailable. Her own children understand and embrace their mother’s mission, often helping to care for the little ones. This family unity strengthens Sbo’s resolve and amplifies the impact of her work. Her reputation has spread far and wide from Umlazi to Folweni, Umbumbulu, Kwamakhutha, and Ezimangweni. People know her as the woman who never turns away a child in need. 

One case in 2021 illustrates her influence: a young boy was found tied up like a dog by his grandmother whenever she left the house. Malnourished and dirty, the child’s plight shocked the community. SAPS intervened, arrested the grandmother, and immediately contacted Sbo. Today, that child is thriving in school, thanks to her care.

Building Skills and Expanding Impact

To better serve the children, Sbo has undergone counselling training, specialising in play therapy. She has also registered as a crisis mother, formalising her role in child protection. Despite lacking a car and relying on taxis to reach those in need, she continues to provide these essential services with unmatched dedication. Sbo’s story is not just about saving live. It is about restoring dignity, creating opportunities, and breaking cycles of abuse. Her work embodies the principles of gender equality and human rights, proving that one person’s courage can ignite change across communities.

By: Sbo Ngcobo